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Dog Training Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lead daily training routes, task sessions, and real-world exposures. * Observe behavioral or ... ADI-certified service dog instructor. * If you're not certified yet but have strong working-dog ...

Dog Trainer

York, PA ยท On-site

$1K/wk

Provide World Class Dog Training Services * Attend and successfully pass Petco's 6-week Dog Trainer Instructor Program led by a Petco Certified Dog Trainer Mentor/Academy Instructor. * Complete all ...

Dog Trainer

York, PA ยท On-site

$1K/wk

Provide World Class Dog Training Services * Attend and successfully pass Petco's 6-week Dog Trainer Instructor Program led by a Petco Certified Dog Trainer Mentor/Academy Instructor. * Complete all ...

Provide World Class Dog Training Services * Attend and successfully pass Petco's 6-week Dog Trainer Instructor Program led by a Petco Certified Dog Trainer Mentor/Academy Instructor. * Complete all ...

Provide World Class Dog Training Services * Attend and successfully pass Petco's 6-week Dog Trainer Instructor Program led by a Petco Certified Dog Trainer Mentor/Academy Instructor. * Complete all ...

Provide World Class Dog Training Services * Attend and successfully pass Petco's 6-week Dog Trainer Instructor Program led by a Petco Certified Dog Trainer Mentor/Academy Instructor. * Complete all ...

Provide World Class Dog Training Services * Attend and successfully pass Petco's 6-week Dog Trainer Instructor Program led by a Petco Certified Dog Trainer Mentor/Academy Instructor. * Complete all ...

Dog Trainer

Exeter, PA ยท On-site

Provide World Class Dog Training Services * Attend and successfully pass Petco's 6-week Dog Trainer Instructor Program led by a Petco Certified Dog Trainer Mentor/Academy Instructor. * Complete all ...

Provide World Class Dog Training Services * Attend and successfully pass Petco's 6-week Dog Trainer Instructor Program led by a Petco Certified Dog Trainer Mentor/Academy Instructor. * Complete all ...

Provide World Class Dog Training Services * Attend and successfully pass Petco's 6-week Dog Trainer Instructor Program led by a Petco Certified Dog Trainer Mentor/Academy Instructor. * Complete all ...

Dog Trainer

Davis, CA ยท On-site

Provide World Class Dog Training Services * Attend and successfully pass Petco's 6-week Dog Trainer Instructor Program led by a Petco Certified Dog Trainer Mentor/Academy Instructor. * Complete all ...

Dog Trainer

Wausau, WI ยท On-site

Provide World Class Dog Training Services * Attend and successfully pass Petco's 6-week Dog Trainer Instructor Program led by a Petco Certified Dog Trainer Mentor/Academy Instructor. * Complete all ...

Provide World Class Dog Training Services * Attend and successfully pass Petco's 6-week Dog Trainer Instructor Program led by a Petco Certified Dog Trainer Mentor/Academy Instructor. * Complete all ...

Provide World Class Dog Training Services * Attend and successfully pass Petco's 6-week Dog Trainer Instructor Program led by a Petco Certified Dog Trainer Mentor/Academy Instructor. * Complete all ...

Provide World Class Dog Training Services * Attend and successfully pass Petco's 6-week Dog Trainer Instructor Program led by a Petco Certified Dog Trainer Mentor/Academy Instructor. * Complete all ...

Dog Trainer

Casper, WY ยท On-site

Provide World Class Dog Training Services * Attend and successfully pass Petco's 6-week Dog Trainer Instructor Program led by a Petco Certified Dog Trainer Mentor/Academy Instructor. * Complete all ...

Provide World Class Dog Training Services * Attend and successfully pass Petco's 6-week Dog Trainer Instructor Program led by a Petco Certified Dog Trainer Mentor/Academy Instructor. * Complete all ...

Provide World Class Dog Training Services * Attend and successfully pass Petco's 6-week Dog Trainer Instructor Program led by a Petco Certified Dog Trainer Mentor/Academy Instructor. * Complete all ...

Dog Trainer

Clemson, SC ยท On-site

Provide World Class Dog Training Services * Attend and successfully pass Petco's 6-week Dog Trainer Instructor Program led by a Petco Certified Dog Trainer Mentor/Academy Instructor. * Complete all ...

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Dog Training Instructor information

See salary details

$35.5K

$68.7K

$103.5K

How much do dog training instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for dog training instructor in the United States is $68,677.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,000.00 and $75,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Dog Training Instructors face when working with clients and their pets?

Dog Training Instructors often encounter challenges such as varying levels of owner commitment, differences in dog temperaments, and clients' unrealistic expectations about training timelines. Building trust with both the dog and the owner is essential, as is communicating clearly about the importance of consistency at home. Instructors must frequently adapt their teaching style and training methods to suit each dog's unique needs while fostering positive relationships with pet owners to ensure lasting results.

What does a Dog Training Instructor do?

A Dog Training Instructor teaches dogs and their owners how to develop good behavior, follow commands, and address behavioral issues. They create training plans tailored to each dog's needs, demonstrate techniques, and provide guidance during classes or private sessions. Instructors also educate owners on positive reinforcement, effective communication, and best practices for handling their pets. Their goal is to strengthen the bond between dogs and their owners through consistent and humane training methods.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Dog Training Instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Dog Training Instructor, you need a solid understanding of animal behavior, training techniques, and often a certification from organizations like the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT). Familiarity with training tools such as clickers, leashes, and positive reinforcement systems, as well as record-keeping software, is common in the field. Patience, excellent communication, and the ability to motivate both dogs and their owners are standout soft skills. These abilities ensure effective training outcomes, client satisfaction, and safe, humane treatment of animals.

What is the difference between Dog Training Instructor vs Pet Trainer?

AspectDog Training InstructorPet Trainer
CertificationsDog training certifications (e.g., CPDT-KA)Varies; often includes pet behavior or training courses
Work EnvironmentTraining dogs in classes, private sessions, or sheltersTraining multiple pets, including dogs, cats, and small animals
Employer & IndustryDog training schools, pet stores, sheltersPet stores, grooming salons, pet care facilities
Search & Comparison IntentFocuses specifically on dog training techniques and behaviorBroader pet training, including various animals

Dog Training Instructors specialize in training dogs, often holding specific certifications and working primarily with dogs in various settings. Pet Trainers may work with multiple types of pets and animals, with training approaches that can vary. While both roles involve animal training, Dog Training Instructors focus exclusively on dogs and related behavior modification.

More about Dog Training Instructor jobs
Infographic showing various Dog Training Instructor job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, and 40% Part Time. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,677 per year, or $33 per hour.
Training Instructor (Vocational Training Instructor - Dog Trainer)

Training Instructor (Vocational Training Instructor - Dog Trainer)

Department of Justice

Big Spring, TX โ€ข On-site

$63K/yr

Other

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Corrections professionals who foster a humane and secure environment and ensure public safety by preparing individuals for successful reentry into our communities.

Qualifications:

To be considered for the position, you must meet the following qualification requirements:
Basic Requirements:
Education:
Undergraduate and Graduate Education: Major study -- education or a subject area related to the position to be filled.
OR
Specialized Experience:
GL-09 and GS-11: Experience that demonstrated a practical knowledge of the subject area of the position and of the methods and techniques of instruction. Examples of qualifying specialized experience include:

  • Teaching or instructing in an adult education program, secondary school, college, military installation, or industrial establishment in the appropriate field(s).
  • Supervising or administering a training program.
  • Development or review of training/course materials, aids, devices, etc., and evaluation of training results.
  • Work in the occupation or subject-matter field of the position to be filled that required training or instructing others on a regular basis.

AND
In addition to meeting the Basic Requirements, applicants must have the following:
Education:
GL-09: A Master's or equivalent graduate degree OR two full years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to such a degree OR LL.B OR J.D., if related.
GS-11: Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree OR three full years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to such a degree OR LL.M., if related.
Undergraduate and Graduate Education: Major study - education or a subject area related to the position to be filled.
OR
Experience:
GL-09 and GS-11: You must have at least one year of specialized experience equivalent in difficulty and complexity to the next lower grade level. To be creditable, this experience must have equipped the applicant with the particular qualifications to perform successfully the duties of the position, and demonstrated a practical knowledge of the subject area of the position, and of the methods and techniques of instruction.
Some examples of this qualifying experience could be:
GL-09:

  • Experience in developing curriculum and individualized learning plans for higher levels of learning .
  • Experience in assisting in developing programs and providing instruction to students from significantly varying backgrounds in a correctional setting.
  • Experience in following standardized curricula and lesson plans to meet the needs of students.

GS-11:

  • Experience in teaching with full and primary responsibility for classroom instruction.
  • Experience in supervising or administering a training program.
  • Work in the occupation or subject-matter field of the position to be filled that required training or instructing others on a regular basis.

OR
Combination of Education and Experience:
GL-09 and GS-11: A combination of education and experience. This experience must have equipped you with the qualifications to perform the major duties of this position as described above.
AND
Selective Placement Factor:
GL-09 and GS-11: Applicants applying for this position MUST also possess the following Selective Factor. In the event that you do not possess the Selective Factor, you will be found ineligible for the position.
GL-09:
Applicant must:
1. Possess and maintain a current certificate from one of the following recognized certifying agencies as an advanced-to-expert level dog trainer with expertise in animal behavior:
A. IAABC-CDBC - International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants- Certified Dog Behavior Consultant OR
B. NADOI - National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors OR
C. IACP-PDTI - International Association of Canine Professionals- Professional Dog Trainer Instructor OR
D. CAAB - Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist OR
E. DACVB - Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists OR
F. PCBC-A - Professional Canine Behavior Consultant (from the Pet Professional Accreditation Board) OR
G. Certification as CBCC-KA-Certified Behavior Consultant Canine-Knowledge Assessed (from the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers) AND

  • a. CPDT-KA - Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed (from the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers) OR
  • b. IAABC-ADT - International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants- Accredited Dog Trainer OR
  • c. CPT-A - Canine Personal Trainer (from the Pet Professional Accreditation Board) OR
  • d. IACP-CDTA - International Association of Canine Professionals Certified Dog Trainer Advanced)

AND
2. Applicant must have one (1) year teaching experience
AND
3. Applicant must also have two (2) years of work experience as a lead dog trainer.
GS-11:
Applicant must:
1. Possess and maintain a current certificate from one of the following recognized certifying agencies as an advanced-to-expert level dog trainer with expertise in animal behavior:
A. IAABC-CDBC - International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants- Certified Dog Behavior Consultant OR
B. NADOI - National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors OR
C. IACP-PDTI - International Association of Canine Professionals- Professional Dog Trainer Instructor OR
D. CAAB - Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist OR
E. DACVB - Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists OR
F. PCBC-A - Professional Canine Behavior Consultant (from the Pet Professional Accreditation Board) OR
G. Certification as CBCC-KA-Certified Behavior Consultant Canine-Knowledge Assessed (from the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers) AND

  • a. CPDT-KA - Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed (from the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers) OR
  • b. IAABC-ADT - International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants- Accredited Dog Trainer OR
  • c. CPT-A - Canine Personal Trainer (from the Pet Professional Accreditation Board) OR
  • d. IACP-CDTA - International Association of Canine Professionals Certified Dog Trainer Advanced)

AND
2. Applicant must have one (1) year teaching experience
AND
3. Applicant must also have three (3) years of work experience as a lead dog trainer.
NOTE: All applicants MUST clearly address the Selective Factor in their resume and, if applicable, upload any required documentation (i.e., licensure, certification, or transcripts) at the time you apply.
If applicable, credit will be given for paid and unpaid experience. To receive proper credit, you must show the actual time (such as the number of hours worked per week) spent in activities.
**Your eligibility for consideration will be based on your responses to the questions in the application.**

Education:

See Qualifications Section for education requirements, if applicable.

ONLY if education is a requirement/substitution for specialized experience, applicant MUST upload legible transcripts as verification of educational requirement. Transcripts MUST be uploaded and electronically linked from USAJOBS at the time you apply and MUST include identifying information to include School Name, Student Name, Degree and Date Awarded (if applicable). All academic degrees and coursework must be completed at a college or university that has obtained accreditation or pre-accreditation status from an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. For a list of schools that meet this criteria, Click Here.

Foreign Education: For information regarding foreign education requirements, please see Foreign Diploma and Credit Recognition at the U.S. Department of Education website: Recognition of Foreign Qualifications.

If you are selected for this position and qualified based on education (i.e. basic education requirement and/or substitution of education), you will be required to provide an OFFICIAL transcript prior to your first day on duty.

Employment Type: OTHER